History

• Believers teach that the church was founded by Jesus Christ in the first century under St. Peter, who is considered the first pope. Its doctrine was formalized in the fourth century by Emperor Constantine and the Council of Nicea. Charlemagne's coronation in 800 A.D. solidified the power of the bishops of Rome, making the Vatican the seat of the papacy and the church.
  
  

Faith

• The Catholic church believes that every human being is guilty of original sin and that salvation can only occur through the acceptance of Jesus Christ as the son of God and adherence to the Catholic faith.
  
  

Worship

• Sunday is considered the holy Sabbath and mass is held accordingly. Followers recite the Nicene Creed, celebrate Holy Communion, and follow the liturgy under the guidance of an ordained priest. On holy days and saints' days, specific rites for worship are followed.
  
  

Hierarchy

• Authority within the church is based on the sacrament of holy orders and the papal hierarchy. The pope is the central figurehead of the church, followed by the cardinal and bishop classes. The priest is the local figurehead charged with conducting mass and the holy sacraments in individual church communities.
  
  

Doctrine

• The Catechism of the Catholic Church and Nicene Creed contain the key elements and rites of the denomination. There are seven holy sacraments: Holy Communion, baptism, confirmation, holy orders, anointing of the sick, matrimony, and confession. The Catholic Bible is the holy scripture of the church and the gospel is considered the source for the teachings of Jesus Christ.